"And...Action" Image Hosting Issues

So...I spent hours working on my submission for the "And...Action!" community event. I posted it using Photobucket as the image host, not realizing that they don't allow third-party hosting without a yearly $400 subscription.

My image currently displays as an error image, and I'd just like to know if the images are all judged from the thread at the time the contest ends, thus invalidating my entry, or if the images are offloaded throughout the entry period, thus preserving my submission.

I also reposted it in the practice thread, for whatever it's worth. Just hoping, honestly... It's a bit demoralizing to think my entry was wiped out due to site traffic...

Edit: Apparently this new 'policy' was a recent addition to Photobucket's business model: https://www.theverge.com/2017/7/4/15...sy-paid-update